Gastritis occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed. When the inflammation is due to an infection, such as a bacteria or virus, the condition may be called infectious gastritis. Symptoms of infectious gastritis vary depending on the agent causing the condition. Helicobacter pylori, also called H. pylori, is a common bacterial cause of infectious gastritis symptoms, states the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
No Symptoms
It is possible for gastritis to produce no symptoms that are recognized by the individual. When the stomach lining is inflamed, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse points out that it produces less acid, enzymes and mucus.
Pain
Pain in the stomach is a possible sign of infectious gastritis. This discomfort takes place in the upper abdominal area and can include sharp pains or a dull ache. The stomach discomfort can be described as a gnawing or burning ache or pain in the stomach, states MayoClinic.com. This can get worse or improve with eating.
Nausea and Vomiting
The changes that take place in that stomach lining can cause nausea and vomiting. Serious gastritis, called erosive gastritis, can lead to open wounds in the stomach. The symptoms of this can lead to blood in the vomit or a coffee-ground-like material, states MedlinePlus. It is not uncommon for an individual to have a diminished appetite from the symptoms of gastritis. Belching, bloating, weight loss and a sense of fullness can appear due to this type of stomach indigestion states, MayoClinic.com. The sense of fullness can occur after a few bites of food.
Bowel Symptoms
Erosive gastritis can result in black, tarry stools. This is a sign of blood in the upper digestive tract. Bright red blood can also appear in the stool when the ulcer or erosion takes place in the lower digestive tract. More bowel symptoms, such as diarrhea or constipation, can develop depending on the infectious agent causing the gastritis.
